Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed that rules banning multibuy deals on foods and drinks high in fat, salt, or sugar including buy one get one free deals will be delayed due to the current cost of living crisis. He said it was “not fair” for the Government to restrict the options available to consumers on their weekly shop.
The industry reaction:
Food Foundation: “Disappointing to see yet another food policy delay with multi-buy restrictions now not coming in until October 2025. What would help families during the #CostOfLivingCrisis? Offers on healthy and staple food, rather than foods high in fat, sugar and salt.”
Andy Jones: “I do feel that our Government have let down the country by delaying this again! I understand the cost argument but why not reduce the cost? They are letting down future generations.”
Bite Back 2030: “What about our right to grow up healthily @RishiSunak? We all deserve access to healthy and affordable food. More access to junk food is not a solution to the #CostOfLivingCrisis or an investment in the future health of our children. The #CostOfLivingCrisis shouldn't cost our health. Promotions on junk food is an effective and manipulative marketing tactic designed to entice us to buy unhealthy food. This delay is yet another sign that this Government is prioritising the food industry's profits over our health.”
School Food Matters: “Government keeps kicking the fizzy drinks can of children's health down the road. These deals spotlight junk food, pushing spending on nutritionally empty items @RishiSunak and @SteveBarclay, show courage and shield our kids from this ultra-processed flood.”
Barbara Crowther from the Children’s Food Campaign: “The NHS is spending £6.5 billion annually on treatments for health conditions related to poor diets, and excess consumption of calories, salt, sugar and saturated fats. The Government should be doubling down on preventative strategies, instead of caving to pressure and contemplating yet another U-turn on children’s health.”